Final answer:
In physics, work is the transfer of energy when a force causes an object to move over a distance in the direction of the force. Work is calculated by the formula W = Fd cos θ, where W is work, F is force, d is displacement, and θ is the angle between force and displacement direction. The SI unit of work is the joule.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Work in Physics:
In physics, work is defined as the transfer of energy through the application of a force over a displacement in the direction of the force. The scientific equation for work is W = Fd cos θ, where W represents work, F is the magnitude of the force applied, d is the displacement of the object, and θ is the angle between the direction of the force and the displacement. The SI unit for work is the joule (J), which is equivalent to one newton-meter (N·m). It is important to note that for work to be done, the displacement must not be zero and must not be perpendicular to the direction of the force applied.
The scientific concept of work is closely linked to the principle of the work-energy theorem, which states that the work done by a force on an object is related to the change in the object's kinetic energy. Work has specific criteria in physics, which are not necessarily consistent with the everyday usage of the term. For example, activities that require physical or mental effort such as studying or holding an object steady without moving it do not constitute work in the scientific sense because there is no displacement.